A picture is worth a thousand words.

As-You-Like-It Granola

The hot weather has been getting to me lately so instead of a slice of toast and juice, I like to start my day with a bowl of cereal with cold soy milk.

Because store bought granola are usually heaped with loads of hidden fats, way too sweet and expensive, especially organic ones, I very much prefer to make my own as I get to control the amount and types of ingredients that go into it and skip those that I do not care for (such as dried mango, pineapple and dessicated coconut). I like to make big batches, give some to my mom and keep the rest in Ziploc bags. They remain crisp and fresh for months when store in the freezer.

Depending on what’s in my stash, I usually toss together rolled oats and barley flakes in a maple syrup/honey and olive oil/melted butter mixture and toast till golden brown before adding nuts, seeds and dried fruits. On the occasional whim, I’d throw in some dark chocolate chips too. There isn’t really a need for recipe per se but here’s one that provides a good reference and starting point if you’d like to give it a try.

Homemade versions can be so much more healthful. Topped with yogurt and paired with fresh fruits or added to smoothies, they make for a nutritionally balanced, filling breakfast or great afternoon snack.